Madeline holds a master's in creative art therapy and counseling from Hofstra University. Prior to joining St. James in 2024, she gained extensive experience in the art therapy field across a variety of settings (starting in 2021), including a children’s hospital, a nursing home, and a private practice where she provided art therapy for individuals with developmental disabilities, both in-clinic and through in-home visits.. Madeline chose this career path because she always believed in the power of creativity and self-expression as essential components of mental health. She recognizes that sometimes words aren’t enough, and creating art can be a powerful way to communicate feelings. She has a person-centered approach and focuses on meeting each client where they are –physically, emotionally, and cognitively – and using strength-based methods to address their unique needs and foster personal growth. Madeline loves working collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team to help provide the best care for the residents. It's so rewarding when the residents are able to work through some of their struggles, whatever they may be, by expressing themselves through their creative process. Madeline loves to paint, draw, read, cook, exercise, spend time with the people I care about, and try new things in her spare time.